The ups and downs of the UK car market
EV Sales Remain Strong – But We Can and Must Go Further
Despite a challenging month for the UK car market overall, there’s still reason to stay optimistic about the future of electric vehicles. According to the latest figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), while new car registrations fell in April 2025, battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales rose significantly year-on-year – showing continued consumer interest and momentum in the EV transition. Year to date sales have been very strong thus far with April traditionally a slower month for vehicle registrations.
The growth in EV sales is encouraging, especially in the face of recent changes to vehicle taxation that have dampened overall market activity. It’s clear that drivers are increasingly choosing electric when given the right conditions – access to charging, affordability, and confidence in the infrastructure.
There is now a huge range of BEVs on the market, with more than 130 models available – including an increasing number at lower price points – the result of massive investment by manufacturers to offer electric options for all consumers across all segments. Year-to-date the new car market is up 3.1% and, with new BEV registrations up 35.2% to push market share to 20.7%, these models are now the second most popular powertrain after petrol but still below the 28% required under market regulations - SMMT (6th May 2025)
We can't afford to be complacent. For EVs to become the true default choice, especially for drivers living in flats and shared properties, the charging experience must catch up with expectations. Too many would-be EV owners are still held back by lack of access to convenient, affordable home or communal charging.
At Cosmic Charging, we’re working to change that – helping developers, managing agents, and residents install smart, shared EV charging where it's needed most. The progress on EV sales is real, but to sustain and accelerate it, we must ensure the infrastructure keeps pace with demand.
